Devotion for Friday, May 27, 2022

“But each one is tempted when he is carried away and enticed by his own lust.  Then when lust has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and when sin is accomplished, it brings forth death” (James 1:14-15).

To be tempted is not a sin.  It’s not the first look that is sin, it is what you do with the second look.  When you encounter another who looks different, what you first see is different.  But then, do you see a child of God?  That, or as the world does, see them through the eyes of sin?  We are called to learn a new way of living, and this includes how we look at people and things.  Literally, how we look at them.

Lord, I am guilty of not paying attention to what I am thinking or doing.  I know You died for my sins but help me so that I stop sinning unaware by keeping Your commandments before the eyes of my heart.  Guide me into being intentional about my thoughts, words, and deeds.  Lead me into the life You are giving me so that I would hold forever fast to the truth You have revealed.

Lord Jesus, You know all the struggles in this world.  You know how hard it is to set aside the desire of the flesh and abide in the truth for my soul.  You have been one of us.  Lead me Lord in the upward life You give in order that I would learn self-control and be guided by Your goodness and mercy.  Help me now and always Lord to see that in You is all hope and an eternal future.  Help me to curb my bad habits and practice good ones.  Amen.